Linked media – Connected media
Corey LaJoie, currently ranked 28th in the NASCAR Cup Series standings, will not be returning as the driver of the No. 7 Spire Motorsports car following the conclusion of the 2024 season.
LaJoie, who has a contract with Spire Motorsports for next year but is now free to explore other opportunities, confirmed the news to FOX Sports, following an initial report by The Athletic.
“I will not be driving the No. 7 car next year,” LaJoie stated. “I take great pride in the role I played in helping Spire become a competitive team, but, unfortunately, my future lies elsewhere.
“We’re committed to finishing the rest of 2024 strong, delivering for my partners, the hardworking team members, and all the fans and supporters who have been with me since the beginning of my Cup Series journey. This chapter will close after Phoenix, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for my family.”
The 32-year-old LaJoie has competed in 258 Cup races since 2017, with his best standings finish being 25th in 2023, when he averaged a 20.8 finishing position. This year, he has averaged a 22.7 finish and currently sits 28th in the standings.
Joining Spire in 2021 as their first full-time driver, LaJoie has been instrumental in the team’s development. Spire has announced that Stewart-Haas Racing’s Rodney Childers will take over as crew chief for the No. 7 car next season. Additionally, Spire will expand to a three-car operation, with Michael McDowell replacing Zane Smith in the No. 71 car and Carson Hocevar continuing in the No. 77 car.
“Corey LaJoie has been a cornerstone of Spire Motorsports since 2021, and his contributions cannot be overstated,” said Jeff Dickerson, co-owner of Spire Motorsports, in a statement. “Corey has invested his heart and soul into this team, helping build it from the ground up.”
LaJoie’s current crew chief, Ryan Sparks, will transition to the role of race director, and with Childers’ arrival, Spire decided it was the right moment for a driver change.
“This is a performance-driven industry, and despite various challenges, we’ve made this decision with careful consideration,” Dickerson explained. “With Ryan moving up and Rodney joining next season, a fresh start for the No. 7 car in 2025 is the best path forward for Spire Motorsports.
“Corey deserves another opportunity to showcase his skills, and we will support him in securing a new position within the Cup garage. I have faith in Corey’s talent and look forward to seeing him prove his critics wrong.”
Linked media – Associated media
